Nominations are now open for the Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards 2026, which celebrate the achievements of apprentices, their mentors, employers, and training providers.

The awards aim to highlight those who are helping to shape the future of the apprenticeship landscape.

Launching the awards, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said the categories would "highlight the outstanding achievements of apprentices, the invaluable support of employers and learning providers, and the essential role of apprenticeships in supporting my economic vision." She encouraged everyone involved in apprenticeships to submit nominations, stating that their success stories could "inspire others to embark on this rewarding career path."

The awards feature seven categories for 2026:

• Apprentice of the Year (Levels 2-3)

• Higher Level Apprentice of the Year (Level 4+)

• Public Sector Apprentice of the Year

• Mentor of the Year • Large Employer in partnership with a Training Provider

• SME in partnership with their Training Provider

• Public Sector Employer in partnership with a Training Provider

Applications must be submitted by 12pm on Friday, 24 October 2025.

More information, including full details on application criteria for each of the awards, along with how to apply, can be obtained from the Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards page on the Department's website at https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-apprenticeship-awards.

More information, including full details on application criteria for each of the awards, along with how to apply, can be obtained from the Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards page on the Department's website at www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-apprenticeship-awards.